Military History - North Shore Manuscript Co., Inc.

AMBROSE BURNSIDE (1824-1881) Union major general who allowed Lee's escape at Antietam As head of the Army of the Potamac saw it crushed at Fredricksburg. Fine Signature with rank on 3" X 2" inch sheet of lined paper, n.p., n.d., "Sincerely yours, A.E. Burnside, Maj. Genrl." Excellent. (#MIL)
NO IMAGE AVAILABLE $100.00
DANIEL BUTTERFIELD (1831-1901) Union Major general who commanded a brigade at Bull Run and lead a corps in the desperate assault on Marye's Heights. Butterfield is also credited with the composition of Taps.

Signature on 5 x 8" portion of lined paper. Signed as assistant treasurer in his usual bold style. Excellent. (#MIL)
view image $85.00
DANIEL BUTTERFIELD (1831-1901) Union Major general who commanded a brigade at Bull Run and lead a corps in the desperate assault on Marye's Heights. Butterfield is also credited with the composition of Taps. ALS, 1p., a potion of a sheet measuring 7" X 4", n.p., n.d. Letter is written to "Master Willie T. Camp." "Tell Dwight Ray he might have hunted in his own private papers and given you a dozen of my autographs." Signed in his usual bold style. Excellent. (#MIL)
view image $175.00
JOHN COCHRAN (1812-1897) Union brigadier general who served as John C. Fremonts running mate against Lincoln in 1864. ALS 1 p., 8vo., New York, December 27, (18)58 He writes to George B Lyman Esq. "Dear Sir, On my return to Washington I will endeavor to forward to you what documents I can." Folded otherwise excellent. (#MIL)
NO IMAGE AVAILABLE $75.00
SAMUEL FRANICES DU PONT (1803-1865) US Naval officer, member of the board appointed to draw up curriculum and regulations for naval academy. During the Civil War he commanded the fleet that invaded Port Royal or Hilton Head, South Carolina in 1861. Earned the rank of rear admiral in 1862. Signature, "S.F. Du Pont , Rear Admiral" on small blue 5" X 2" sheet, cut from a larger sheet. n.p., n.d. His rank is written in another hand. In April 1863, Du Pont attempted to invade Charleston, South Carolina, where he was defeated. Du Pont was relieved from active duty in July of 1863. Suitable for framing. Excellent. (#MIL)
NO IMAGE AVAILABLE $90.00
ELMER EPHRAIM ELLSWORTH (1837-1861) A young Chicago clerk, Elmer Ephraim Ellsworth organized a company of Zouaves for the Union Army at the beginning of the Civil War. Zouaves were troops known for their exotic Algerian-inspired costumes and flamboyant drill. They performed at the White House in 1860. In May 1861 this New York Zouave regiment helped to take Alexandria, Virginia. It was here Ellsworth was killed in a dispute over the removal of the Confederate flag. Ellsworth was a friend and election aide of Abraham Lincoln. He is considered the first prominent Union casualty of the Civil War. Elmer was 'like a son' to President Lincoln who was so greatly upset at the death of the young man that an elaborate funeral was held for Elmer Ephraim Ellsworth in the White House. Signature "E.E. Ellsworth" on 1 x 4" sheet, n.p., n.d. Ellsworth's signature is extremely rare. Excellent. (#MIL)
view image $950.00
NATHAN GEORGE EVANS (1824-1868) Confederate Brigadier General. West Point graduate, Commanded a Louisiana Battalion of Zouaves. On December 18, 1861 he was assigned to command the 3rd District of South Carolina, commissioned Brigadier general on that date, for his victory at Ball's Bluff. Signature, "N.G. Evans," on 3" X 1" lined sheet. Suitable for framing. Excellent. (#MIL)
NO IMAGE AVAILABLE $135.00
WILLIAM FLOYD (1734-1821) American Revolutionary leader. Member of the Continental Congress, served four consecutive terms from 1775-1782. Signer of the Declaration of Independence, Member U.S. House of Representatives, officer in the militia of Suffolk County rising to the rank of major general.

MDS, 1p., 8 1/4 x 4" oblong, [Washington], June 30, 1778. A very wonderful historical revolutionary artifact. An affidavit signed by Floyd acknowledging his receipt of payment of fifty six dollars from Gerard Bancker, Treasurer, while he was a member of the Continental Congress "Full payment for services within certified". On the other side of this sheet is a AES of PIERRE VAN CORTLAND (1721-1814) descendant of the famous Van Cortland family, who was also a revolutionary, a member of Provincial convention and Council of Safety and Provincial Congress. Upon organization of NY State government he was chosen Lieutenant Governor of NY. In 1777 he was president of the Convention at Kingston which framed the first constitution of the State of NY. At this time Van Cortland issues a document stating "I hereby certify that William Floyd Esquire, hath attended the Senate as a member there of twenty eight days..." and thus is now officially able to accept his official government paycheck.

William Floyd was an active participant in the revolution. He lost his land to the British and spent all his efforts for the patriotic cause. He was the first representative from the state of New York at the first Congress.

This manuscript is a fine early representation of the development of the American government systems. A governmental issue of renumeration for the work by a political leader. Excellent. (#MIL6101)
view image $1,600.00
RENE' PAUL FONCK (1894-1953) French Captain and Flying Ace in the :French Air Service During World War I.: At the outbreak of World War One Fonck joined the French Army. But in early 1915, he began flight training in a Penguin at Saint-Cy, displaying an inherent talent for flying. He served with Escadrille C47 flying an unarmed Caudron on reconnaissance missions over the enemy lines. In April 1917, Fonck became a fighter pilot and was assigned to Spa103. He developed a reputation for studying the tactics of his opponents and conserving ammunition during a dogfight. On two separate occasions, he shot down six enemy aircraft in one day. With 75 recorded victories Fonck was the highest scoring flying ace for France and the Allies.

Signed 3 1ˇ2 x 5 1ˇ2 inch postal card, depicting a bust image of Fonck in uniform. The card is inscribed to "A M Lucile Mac Cracken, Modeste Souvenior Rene' Fonck 5-11-25". The top 1ˇ2 inch portion of this card has a 1 1ˇ2 x 1ˇ2 inch triangular tear with paper loss on the right corner and a brief biography is written in blue ink across the top 1ˇ2 inch of the card, black mounting traces on verso. These imperfections would mat out easily. Signed images of Fonck are rare. (#MIL)
view image $1,500.00
ULYSSES S. GRANT (1822-1885) 18th President of the United States, Colonel of Illinois volunteers at outbreak of Civil War, promoted several times, eventually to Lieutenant General with command of all armies of the United States during the Civil War. His brilliant leadership and relentless attacks brought down the Confederate defenses. Grant is famous for receiving Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House.

ALS, "U.S. Grant", 2pp., written on first and 3rd 8vo. sheet, Washington DC, Jan. 5, 1885. This holograph letter to Hon. V. H. Manning M.C., introduces Mr. Theo Smith, "A relative of a former Commissioner of Indian affairs.." he continues, "Mr. Smith wishes to call your attention to a bill which is now in the house, having passed the Senate which he is interested in...May I ask an interview for Mr. Smith." The current president, Chester A. Arthur, was dealing with several Indian issues at the time of this writing which could be the focus of this letter. Possibly an issue that had already passed the senate dealing with Creek and Seminole Indians, certain unoccupied lands, were subject to homestead by settlers. It was the government's feeling that these lands were to remain open and the public had no right to settle there. The issue directed the expulsion of those settlers by the use of military force, confirming a proclamation previously issued by R.B. Hayes. Assuming Grant was in agreement, that the treaties made with the Indians should be maintained, he requests an interview for Mr. Smith. Excellent. (#MIL6102)
view image $1,900.00
HENRY W. HALLECK (1815-1872) Union general, American soldier, nicknamed 'Old Brains', due to his fine West Point education, and having been the author of Elements of Military Art and Science. Halleck spent most of the Civil War as Lincoln's military advisor and general in chief, he played a major role in the administration of the Civil War.

Signature, "H.W. Halleck", Major General, 2 3/4 x 1 1/2", matted and framed with a Johnson Fryd Co. engraving of Halleck in uniform. Two columns of original newspaper clippings dated May 31st 1862 entitled "Official report of Maj. General Halleck" are framed with it as well. Overall measures 19 x 21", a very fine piece, with great eye appeal. Excellent. (#MIL6103)
view image $245.00
WADE HAMPTON (1818-1902) American politician, confederate officer and Brigadier general during the Civil War. He was engaged at Bull Run, Gettysburg and Upper Shenandoah. Second in command under J.E.B. Stuart at Gettysburg, commander of Confederate Cavalry after Stuartķs death. Lieutenant general, governor of South Carolina and U.S. senator. Signature on 3 1/2 x 2 1/4" card, "Wade Hampton So Ca" Excellent. (#MIL6104)
view image $425.00
BENJAMIN HARRISON (1833-1901) Twenty-third U.S. President, great grandson of William Henry Harrison. Served through the Civil War, brevetted brigadier general. U.S. Senator elected president 1889.

ALS, 2 individual sheets, 8vo., Indianapolis, Indiana, Dec. 9, 1880, on decorative letterhead of the "Law Office of Harrison, Hines and Miller" Harrison writes to Carl R. M. Kelly of Louisville. He responds to an editorial in the Louisville Commercial of the previous day.

"Your editorial on the senatorial question in Indiana is so very kind and complimentary to me...The attempt to make it appear that there was or could be any personal unfriendliness between (?) and me was the work of those who were not friends to either of us. His withdrawal sets many mutual friends free to act for me."

In 1880 Harrison was chairman of the Indiana delegation to the Republican National Convention. Here he played a leading role in nominating Garfield for President. Harrison was suggested as a alternate presidential candidate but refused as he had been elected to US Senate that year. An interesting correspondence with good political association. Excellent. (#MIL6105)
view image $900.00
RUTHERFORD B. HAYES (1822-1893) Nineteenth president of the United States, attorney from Ohio, decorated Civil War general, member U.S. house of representatives, governor of Ohio. DS, "R.B. Hayes", 1p., 7 1/2 x 4", Executive department, State of Ohio, Columbus, Dec. 16, 1871.

A document signed as governor of Ohio "authorizing and requiring the Auditor of State to issue a warrant on the Treasurer in favor of A.H. Miller for services as Special Examiner of State Treasury." The document #10 is for the sum of $50. Fine document, some feathering to signature. (#MIL6106)
view image $275.00
SAMUEL HUNTINGTON (1731-1796) American Revolutionary, political leader, member Continental Congress, and its president (1779-81, 1783), signer of Declaration of Independence from Connecticut, governor of Connecticut. A skillful but quiet attorney devoted to his profession, never imagined himself in public life. However, in 1765 fueled by his indignation over British oppression in the form of the Stamp Act, Huntington forced himself into public life and pushed himself to the forefront and became a leader in the revolution. His influence rose steadily until his election as President of the Continental Congress, as at this writing.

DS, as President of the Continental Congress, 1p., on velum, 10 1/2 x 6 1/2", September 29, 1779, Philadelphia. The appointment of Samuel Burnham to Lieutenant in the Third Massachusetts Regiment in the Army of the United States. "Witness by his Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire, President of the Continental Congress of the United States of America...in the fourth year of our Independence." Entered in the war office and examined by the board and attested by and signed by BEN STODDERT (1751-1813). In 1776 Stoddert joined the Continental Army as captain of the cavalry and rose to the rank of major. Severely wounded at Brandywine unfit for active service he remained with the Army as Secretary of the Board of War until 1781. In May of 1798 he was appointed first secretary of the Navy. He was acting secretary of war after the resignation of James Henry until Dexter took charge. Stoddert's experience in the mercantile marine coupled with his tact industry and judgement were valuable in the formation of U.S. Naval forces.

Some toning due to age, totally intact, nice signature although ink does not adhere in all places. White paper seal intact. Very Good. (#MIL6107)
view image $1,100.00
ANDREW JACKSON (1767-1845) Seventh president of the U.S., nicknamed 'Old Hickory', member of the House of Representatives from Tenn., governor of Florida. His administration known for introduction of Spoils System, veto renewal of National Banks Charter, nullification issue with South Carolina and Westward Expansion.

ALS, 1p., 4to., on velum, Hermitage, Nashville, TN, December 4, 1844. Jackson responds to Mr. James Lucas of Kennsington, Philadelphia, to his what seems, a somewhat unusual request. "I have received...your request for a lock of hair and my autograph on this parchment which he has enclosed to me. Although, greatly afflicted and much debilitated so much so that I am scarcely able to write...I have complied with your request. The lock of hair you will find enclosed (not included). Respectfully yours, Andrew Jackson". Although this request may seem unique the collecting of hair of famous people is still a popular hobby.

Jackson who within his life time was considered one of the greatest American heroes died the same year in which Texas was annexed to the United States, marking the close of a political era. Until the early 1860's the Calhoun element in the Democratic Party became more dominant. This letter was written 6 months prior to Jackson's death, his words give evidence of his failing health, but this request is evidence of his continued popularity in the public eye. Due to the nature if velum the ink does not adhere as it would to paper although quite attractive and fine. Signature bold. (#MIL6108)
view image $1,750.00
ANDREW JACKSON (1767-1845) Seventh U.S. President, member U.S. House of Representatives, Judge Tennessee Supreme Court at time of writing.

ADS, signed twice, 2pp. large folio, State of Tennessee, February 4, 1804, on verso of handwritten document, an indenture describing a land transaction between William Donelson and William Harder. On verso Jackson holograph legal text reads in full:

"State of Tennessee, On this Twenty fourth day of February Eighteen hundred and four personally came William Donelson the within named before me Andrew Jackson one of the Judges of the Superior Courts of law and Equity for the State, aforesaid and acknowledged the due execution of the written instrument of writing as his act and Deed for the use and purpose expressed and requested that the same might be registered. Let it be registered accordingly. Andrew Jackson."

Donaldson may well have been a relative to Jackson through marriage as he later married Rachel Donelson of Nashville. Very Good. (#MIL6109)
view image $2,800.00
ANDREW JACKSON (1767-1845) Seventh U.S. President, (1767-1845) Seventh U.S. President, member U.S. House of Representatives, Judge Tennessee Supreme Court at time of writing.

DS, 1p., as President,17 x 14 Washington, March 3rd 1831. Ornate Military commission appointing Charles H. Davis to the position of Lieutenant in The Navy. The document is illustrated with vignettes of a soaring eagle on the top portion and the lower portion is decorated with naval implements including harpoons, cannons, buoys, anchors and flags. The seal in intact and boldly displayed in the bottom center of the document. This handsome piece is counter signed by John Branch the Secretary of the Navy. Item is matted in ivory and framed in a gold. It is framed to measure 23 1/2 x 19 1/2. In excellent condition. (#MIL6110)
view image $2,500.00
ROBERT TODD LINCOLN (1843-1926) American lawyer, son of Abraham Lincoln, US secretary of war, US minister to Great Britain. ALS, Robert T. Lincoln, on black bordered mourning stationery, 1 p., 4 to., Chicago, June 17, (18)65. This letter written just two months after his father's death is to W.A. Camp Esq. Lincoln writes "My dear Sir: I have the honour of acknowledging on the part of my Mother the receipt of the box containing the Resolutions of the Bank Officers of New York. I beg to express through you our thanks for the kind sentiments contained in them as well as for the beautiful manner in which they are presented." It is easy to speculate that Robert Lincoln acting as his mother's agent and executor was responding to condolences as well as estate business from the Bank of New York. One can only imagine the confusion and family responsibilities that suddenly befell Lincoln's only living son, who's burden it became to handle the assassinated President's estate and console his bereaved mother. The letter is in excellent condition and is boldly and clearly written. (#MIL)
view image $425.00
GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN (1826-1885) American Army officer commissioned major general US Army at the outbreak of the Civil War. Commissioned major general in 1861, commanded division of the Potomac, in 1861 commissioned general in chief. Democratic candidate for President in election of 1864. Defeated by Lincoln.

Autograph signature on 4 x 5 1/2 inch souvenir autograph page "Presented to the French Fair with the compliments of Geo B. McClellan, Boston, April 1871." A fine bold signature. There is a stain which discolors a portion of the sheet, otherwise fine. (#MIL6118)
view image $250.00
GEORGE G. MEADE (1815-1872) Union major general who commanded brilliantly at Gettysburg, leading to a Union victory and the turning point of the Civil War. ALS, on blue lined paper "Geo. G. Meade" 1p., 5" X 6", Philadel(phia), Jan. 14, (18)64. A fine Civil War date correspondence, being a visitation pass for the wife of a Private. "The bearer Mrs. Jane Egner has permission to visit her husband Conrad Egner, Private 88th (?), and to remain in the Army of the Potomac for the period of two weeks. All guards, provost marshals MM agents and others will accordingly pass Mrs. Egner" signed with full rank, "Geo. G. Meade, Major General of US, Commd A.P." On the eve of Gettysburg, Meade was relieved of command of the 5th Corps to become Chief of the Army of the Potomac. Meade was the only man not fired from that job.

The letter has been archivally repaired on verso at fold lines. The letter bears a red stamp or postal marking which reads WASHINGTON, US MRR/ JAN 15 1864. The stamp touches the Geo in George. The reversed shadow, caused by folding of the letter when the stamp was wet, touches a portion of the signature as well. Overall though a wonderful Civil War item. (#MIL)

view image $1,200.00
THOMAS FRANCIS MEAGHER (1823-1867) Irish born Union General who founded and commanded the New York "Irish Brigade" or the "Fighting 69th". They fought at Antietam, Fredricksburg and Chancellorsville, where his brigade was decimated. After the war while acting as governor of Montana Territory he fell from a riverboat and drown. Rumors state he was drunk at that time. ALS, "T.F. Meagher", 1p., 4 to., n.p., n.d. A warm note, and sincere greeting to an unknown recipient "for the kindest courtesy, and constant services of the friendliest nature rendered to my wife. With the kindest regards, I am most faithfully your friend, T.F. Meagher.." Meagher's first wife died in Ireland before he came to the United States in 1852. His second wife was Elizabeth Townsend of Southfield New Jersey. They married in November of 1855. Letter is in fine condition. (#MIL)
view image $375.00
ORMSBY MCKNIGHT MITCHEL (1810-1862) Union major general and astronomer. Commander of the department of the South died at Beaufort of yellow fever. Signature "O.M. Mitchel", n.p., n.d., on 8" X 3" sheet of lined paper. O.M. Mitchel, Maj; Genrl, USC. Suitable for framing. Mitchel's signature is considered rare. (#MIL)
view image $250.00
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) / EDITH KERMIT ROOSEVELT (1861-1948) Twenty-sixth United States President, organized and served in the first volunteer cavalry, the Rough Riders. Assistant U.S. Secretary of the Navy, V.P. under McKinley, succeeded to presidency upon his death. Politically progressive, Roosevelt made famous the quote 'Speak softly and carry a big stick.'

Signatures on one 4 1/2 x 3 1/2" sheet, pulled from an autograph album. One can assume, although not confirm, this signature of Roosevelt is as President due to the date on the signature on the verso, which is ANDREW D. WHITE (1832-1918) American educator and diplomat, Chartered and begain Cornell University, President of that University, who writes an altruistic aphorism, "Today is the disciple of yesterday-tomorrow today" dated September 21, 1903. Two fine samples. Excellent. (#MIL6111)
view image $550.00
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) Twenty-sixth United States President. TLS, as President, 1p., 4to., The White House, Washington, January 31, 1909. Roosevelt corresponds with Olympic hero James Connolly. In response to letters he received regarding Connolly's heroic deeds during a disaster at sea aboard the Republic Sea Borne.

"I have just made public a couple of letters that were sent to me about your actions, which gave me the utmost pleasure. Evidently you behaved with cool courage..."

Connelly has written in the margins, in pencil, details of the events leading to his receipt of this letter. Comes with envelope. Regular folds. Very Good. (#MIL6112)
view image $700.00
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) Twenty-sixth United States President. TLS, as President, 1p., 4to., The White House, Washington, January 31, 1909. Roosevelt writes to Jacob A. Rils.

"I have your letter of the 12th and read your article...I was delighted with it. It won't be long before I see you now. Ever yours..." Corrections in Roosevelt's hand appear in black marker.

Framed to measure 8 x 11 inches, and matted with a black and white oval image of Roosevelt. Very good, elegant presentation. (#MIL6113)
view image $800.00
WILLIAM H. TAFT (1857-1903) Twenty-seventh US President, attorney from Ohio, judge Ohio superior court, US secretary of war under T. Roosevelt, professor of law at Yale 1913-1921. Chief justice US Supreme Court.

TLS, "Wm H.T.", 1p., 4to., Department of Justice, Office of the Solicitor General, Washington DC, February 8, 1892. A letter discussing Senate business, the Wood Case and the hopes of reaching a conclusion. The solicitor general acts as court lawyer for the United States and argues all cases where the government is involved. His responsibilities include handling all of the attorney general's responsibilities if he is unable to perform his duties. (#MIL6114)
view image $195.00
ZACHARY TAYLOR (1784-1850) Twelfth United States President, nicknamed "Old Rough and Ready", famed Indian fighter and victorious Mexican War general. He died in office after serving only 15 months as President, thus material signed as President is considered scarce.

Signature, "Z. Taylor Commanding", on 1" x 2" sheet, glued to a larger 2" x 3" sheet. n.p., n.d. Comes with antique engraving from 1861 which has a facsimile signature on border. A fine piece for framing. (#MIL6115)
view image $775.00
HARRY S. TRUMAN (1884-1972) Thirty third President of the United States of America, artillery officer in WWI, U.S. senator, vice president, succeeded to presidency at the death of F.D.R. in April of 1945.

TLS, 1p., 4to., on White House stationery, Washington DC, September 13, 1950. At the outbreak of the Korean War, the president responds to Harry I. Schwimmer of Missouri, "Many thanks for your favorable comments regarding my recent address to the Nation. It is most encouraging to receive such expressions of approval I am...grateful for your...assurance of cooperation."

On July 1st 1950 the first ground forces landed in Korea. On Sept. 8 emergency powers over the national economy were granted to the President under the Defense Production Act. On the date of this letter U.S. forces landed at Inchon on the West Coast of Korea just South of the 38th parallel and began the drive inland. A fine letter referring to an address made by the president to a nation newly at war. Paper clip damage on top and bottom portion, does not detract from the importance of the references made in this letter. Very Good. (#MIL6116)
view image $350.00
HARRY S. TRUMAN (1884-1972) Thirty third President of the United States of America, TLS, "Harry", 1p., 4to., United States Senate, Washington DC, November 6, 1941. Truman writes to James Wade of Sullivan Missouri. He refers to a correspondence received, including a copy of a letter mentioned sent to "Cannon" and states, "I have not talked to Cannon about this matter yet, but I will talk to him when the confirmation comes up for consideration." Excellent. (#MIL6117)
view image $175.00
GEORGE WASHINGTON (1732-1799) First President of the United States of America, leader of Colonial opposition to British Policies in America. American revolutionary leader, president of the Constitutional Convention and Commander in Chief of Continental Armies during the Revolution.

Fine, bold, Signature "Go Washington" written on a 7/8" X 3" sheet of paper which appears to be a portion of lottery ticket , n.p. n.d., the year imprinted on it is 1768. Washington often participated in efforts to raise funds for projects. In the 1760's Washington was involved in a project attempting to purchase land for veterans of the French and Indian War and to build roads in the Ohio area. Lottery tickets were often used to generate funds for national projects such as these. This ticket portion which bears a dark ,bold, signature is a wonderful example. Included is an engraved portrait of Washington with a facsimilie signature. The two would frame up beautifully. Mounting traces and small tape remnants on back at edges not affecting signature. (#PVP)

view image $4,800.00

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